Persian Rug Styles

Persian Rug Styles

Persian Rug Styles

Persian rug craftsmanship is probably the most advanced and diverse in the entire history of carpet manufacturing. Magnificent floor coverings originating from what used to be the mighty Persian Empire come in a plethora of styles, shapes, sizes and colors, depending on the exact region and purpose of making, as well as on the imagination and creativity of individual artisans. Tabriz, Heriz, Bakshaish, Khorassan, Sarouk, Shiraz, Kerman, Malayer, Meshad or Sultanabad – each of these weaving centers distinguishes itself with characteristic features like preferred motifs, pattern arrangements, dimensions, colors or materials yet all are united by the upmost quality of intricate Persian techniques. The asymmetrical knot – Senneh – has always allowed carpet-weaving masters to create intricate designs worked out to the smallest details, and to develop various Persian rug styles that have been honed for generations.

Colors in Persian Rugs

The astounding array of colors in Persian rugs in not solely a decoration – it is a contribution to the overall design and, therefore, to the greater story that proficient craftsmen wanted us to know. In the intertwining warp and weft there are hidden tales about heroes and kings, about great loves and battles, about mundane existence of ordinary people of that time, about heavenly and human affairs. Each factor of the particular rug – each line or dot in the pattern, as well as each color variation – bears grave significance to reading of the design properly, and thus, to understanding of the whole message. Here, we would like to present the meaning behind at least some of them.

Green Persian Rugs

Green, the color of balance, harmony and growth from a psychological perspective, and a symbol of hope and new life connected to Spring and the rebirth of nature, was definitely not the most commonly applied hue on Persian carpets yet decisively the most important one. The reason for its prominence was that allegedly it was the favorite color of the prophet Mohammed, so by the Persians, particularly the orthodox Mohammedans, green was considered as sacred. Therefore, antique green Persian rugs are those most magnificent and special, very often entirely saved from being walked on. Emerald shades in Persian carpets also symbolize hope, renewal and the unbreakable force of life. Green Persian rugs are the apple of the eye of connoisseurs around the globe.

Blue Oriental Rugs

After red and beige, blue is the most commonly applied color in Persian rugs. In general color theory, blue symbolizes thoughtfulness, intelligence, trust, responsibility and loyalty. Blue Oriental rugs were extremely desirable, as it was not an easily obtained dye, at least until the discovery of indigo. In Persian carpets, the color signifies power but also solitude— it creates an allusion to the afterlife. This is why blue oriental rugs very often carry motifs connected to the subject of life after death, like the tree of life or cypresses. A Persian carpet with the application of blue is a true treat for all rug aficionados and beauty lovers. It will marvelously complete any contemporary décor.

Grey Oriental Rugs

Grey is quite an intriguing hue in reference to Persian carpets. There are not many entirely grey Oriental rugs, nor there is any particular significance assigned to this transitional color. However, the shade appears quite frequently as the part of the greater design. Moreover, some extremely rare and valuable antique carpets obtained the silver glow thanks to the application of metal threads to their construction. Grey Oriental rugs are simply perfect for the arrangement of 21st-century interiors. They constitute an unobtrusive foundation with an exotic vibe, on which it is easy to build the décor.

Sizes of Persian Rugs

Fabulous Persian rugs constitute an immense category which has many common factors but also is distinguished by subtle differences. Each weaving center has its preferred motifs and colors, as well as favored sizes. Rugs of various dimensions served miscellaneous purposes, from tiny prayer rugs, though medium, classic floor coverings to large antique area rugs. Nowadays, while choosing an oriental rug for an interior, it is advisable to recognize which size of a carpet would be the best for the space we want to arrange, and which will help us complement the décor, instead of overwhelming it.

Large Oriental Rugs

Large Oriental rugs are usually distinguished by extremely opulent and meticulous designs, top-notch materials, and the finest making. It emerges from the fact that really huge dimensions were very often created for the Royal Court, the nobility, as well as for diplomatic gifts or religious purposes. Such venerable destinations called for the execution by the most dexterous artisans from the best weaving centers. Large Oriental rugs exude an elegant and timeless appeal, unmatched by any other home accessory. They will marvelously fit into ample spaces, or constitute the base of bit smaller rooms, creating a wall-to-wall cushion for the feet and a feast for the eyes hungry for eternal design.

Medium Persian Rugs

Medium is perhaps the most common of all sizes, shared by all the weaving centers. Medium Persian rugs are the most frequently picked ones by present day carpet shoppers. They have the greatest range of application in interiors as they can easily fit into regular apartments and expansive mansions alike. Medium Persian rugs are a safe choice that will satisfy even the most demanding customers. Due to the fact that they were made by practically every weaving center, their variety is the largest and such carpets can be found in all kinds of styles, pile lengths and designs. If one is not sure about the perfect dimension for his or her dream rug, the answer is always medium.

Small Persian Rugs

Small Persian rugs were more often than not created for religious purposes in the form of prayer rugs. This particular group of textiles served devoted Muslims for their daily worship routine consisting of 5 prayers which had to be performed kneeling down and prostrating in the direction to Mecca. Handy and portable, prayer rugs provided ideal insulation from the ground and a comfortable platform for the believers. Nonetheless, small Persian rugs also come in regular, non-religious designs. Such floor coverings will be ideal for contemporary décors, especially for smaller spaces like bathrooms, kitchens or vestibules.